John Clare, the ‘peasant poet’ was born in Helpston near Peterborough and died in Northampton. His life began at one end of the Nene Valley and ended at the other. Clare was an eagle-eyed naturalist and his work reflects the effects of the early intensification of farming, including the loss of several species of flora and fauna. He also wrote about himself, his health and his social place.

The John Clare contemplative trail uses artcodes technology to bring you a trail showcasing some of John Clare’s poems, and folk music that his poetry has inspired. View the landscape and natural world through the lens of John Clare, and contemplate the changes you have observed.

Download the ‘All Aboard for Rushden’ app from your app store to get started. When prompted input the ‘share code’: 7BH0TW

The trail will be at Stanwick Lakes for the duration of the Nene Valley Festival, 11^th – 19^th September